Vertebroplasty & Kyphoplasty


Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are minimally invasive procedures used for the treatment of vertebral compression fractures. These procedures provide new hope for those suffering from severe back pain most often caused by osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes a loss of normal bone density, leading to a condition where bones become more porous and are vulnerable to breaking. Cancer may also cause the vertebrae to become weakened.

When the vertebrae become weakened, they are at risk to collapse causing a compression fracture. These vertebral compression fractures cause extreme pain, which limits the possibility of normal movement or simple activities. 

In the past, compression fractures could be treated with one of three options: pain medications, bed rest or external bracing. Typically, vertobroplasty is recommended after these less invasive treatments have failed. If severe pain persists, patients can now be referred to an Interventional Radiologist to see if vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty is a treatment option for them.

 

Immediate Pain Reduction

In vertebroplasty, the Interventional Radiologist stabilizes the collapsed vertebra using image guidance to inject specially formulated acrylic bone cement through a hollow needle into the empty space within weakened vertebrae to strengthen them and provide pain relief.  

In kyphoplasty a balloon is inserted through the hollow needle into the fracture vertebra. It is inflated to create a cavity for the cement injection. The balloon is removed prior to the injection. 

These are typically outpatient procedures (no hospitalization or surgery) and require only a local anesthetic. Most patients experience pain reduction within hours. Best of all, patients are able to resume their daily activities within 48 hours. 

If you or a loved one may be suffering from pain associated with a vertebral compression fracture, we encourage you to discuss this with your primary care physician. Or contact us to schedule a consultation with an Interventional Radiologist.

 

Benefits of Vertebroplasty & Kyphoplasty

  • Increases a patient's functional abilities, allowing for a return to the previous level of activity, without any form of physical therapy or rehabilitation to stabilize the vertebra.
  • Typically successful at alleviating the pain caused by a vertebral compression fracture; many patients feel significant relief almost immediately; many become symptom-free.
  • After vertebroplasty, about 75 percent of patients regain lost mobility, becoming more active, which helps combat osteoporosis. After the procedure, patients who had been immobile can get out of bed, reducing their risk of pneumonia. Increased activity builds more muscle strength, further encouraging mobility.
  • Safe and effective.
  • Non surgical incision.

 

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call (561) 263-4414.